Pre-season is never glamorous and managers down the leagues are usually scrapping around for options and throw on a trialist or two.

The officials are usually reliable though, so it came as a shock when, during Grimsby Town's game at Blundell Park on Saturday, a policewomen took on the role as a fourth official on the touchline, report the Grimsby Telegraph.

Town drew 1-1 with League One side Wigan Athletic , with Ben Davies' 90th minute equaliser cancelling out Callum Lang's opener.

But one of the highlights for fans was the cameo appearance by a Humberside Police officer on the touchline.

When the fourth official was unable to carry out a substitution, she stepped in to help out.

The official picked up an injury, leading to a fourth official substitution (Image: Grimsby Telegraph)

And with her handcuffs, baton and pepper spray at her side, this officer lifted the official's board to allow the game to continue.

And thanks to the officer's quick thinking Town were able to introduce Karleigh Osborne for Danny Collins in the second half switch.

One fan said: "It happened in a flash. The official seemed to get an injury and the policewoman just stepped in quickly to help out.

"It was great to see. Although I'm not sure pepper spray should be a permanent addition for officials."

The moment was captured on camera and has gone viral on social media being picked up in countries around the world including Spain and Turkey.

As for the game itself, there was no Omar Bogle in the Wigan ranks as rumours of a transfer have been gathering pace.

He joined the Latics from Town in January for an undisclosed fee, but he has already been placed on the transfer list.

Town went 1-0 down against their visitors, before a last-minute penalty from Ben Davies earned the home side a share.